Ateneo de Manila University confirmed on Saturday that preparations are underway to repatriate the remains of student-athlete Divine Adili to Nigeria, two weeks after he and teammate Rene Baterbonia died in a drowning incident in Aurora. The university stated it is coordinating with Adili’s family and authorities to ensure his return for burial, with Fr. Munching de Guzman SJ among two representatives accompanying the remains. De Guzman has begun obtaining required vaccinations and medications to enter Nigeria, according to the institution.
Ateneo emphasized that travel arrangements are still being finalized in collaboration with Adili’s family and relevant authorities, aiming to “ensure Divine’s return home is carried out with dignity, care, and respect.” The university also reiterated its request for the Ateneo community to continue praying for Adili and his family. A public wake was held for Adili at Arlington Memorial Chapels earlier this week, followed by a candle-light service at the university attended by teammates, former head coach Tab Baldwn, and embassy officials.
Why This Matters
The repatriation highlights the intersection of institutional responsibility and cultural practices in cross-border funerary arrangements. Ateneo’s involvement underscores the role of educational institutions in supporting international students during crises. The presence of a Jesuit priest and Nigerian embassy representatives reflects the diplomatic and religious dimensions of the process, which may influence the scale and protocol of Adili’s final rites.
What May Happen Next
Travel logistics for Adili’s remains could depend on the completion of documentation and health certifications. The involvement of a university representative and embassy officials suggests the process may include formal diplomatic channels. Future steps may involve coordination with Nigerian authorities to finalize burial details, though no specific timeline was provided in the university’s statement.
Ateneo de Manila University has not specified whether Baterbonia’s remains will also be repatriated, though the focus remains on Adili’s family’s wishes. The university’s statement did not address potential delays or additional hurdles in the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
[What triggered the repatriation efforts?]
The repatriation of Divine Adili’s remains was initiated by Ateneo de Manila University following his drowning in Aurora, with coordination involving his family and relevant authorities.
[Who is accompanying Adili’s remains to Nigeria?]
Fr. Munching de Guzman SJ, a Jesuit priest, is one of two representatives accompanying Adili’s remains, alongside another individual not named in the university’s statement.
[What role did the Nigerian embassy play?]
The Chargé d’Affaires of the Nigerian Embassy in Manila, Ambassador Regina K. Aondona, visited to offer condolences, indicating diplomatic engagement in the aftermath of the incident.
How might the repatriation process influence future handling of similar incidents involving international students?